Mexican Macaroni and Cheese puts a spicy, colorful spin on the traditional mac and cheese dish, blending the comforting richness of creamy cheese with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. This version includes a mix of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, infused with a concoction of green chiles, diced tomatoes, and smoky spices like cumin and paprika. The addition of corn and black beans adds texture and deepens the flavor profile, making each bite both satisfying and exciting. Perfect for a family dinner or as a hearty side dish at gatherings, Mexican Macaroni and Cheese is sure to delight anyone looking for a cheesy comfort meal with a zesty twist.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces macaroni pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 1 can (4 ounces) green chiles, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
- Optional: Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water, according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce is thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Fold in the cooked macaroni, green chiles, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies into the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure that everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the Mexican Macaroni and Cheese cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Mexican Macaroni and Cheese is a festive, comforting dish that perfectly marries traditional and modern flavors. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heat and complexity in their comfort food, making it a memorable and flavorful twist on a beloved classic.
